Many patients who have cancer actively explore complementary therapies such as vitamins, special diets, herbs and acupuncture. This can be a very confusing experience for most people. We at the Center of Integrative Medicine feel it is important to keep in mind the following points regarding integrating complementary therapies into the total care of a person living with cancer:

• Each individual can be empowered to bring greater wellness and healing into his or her own life.
• Complementary therapies can be used to support and strengthen overall health. For instance, some may boost immune function. Others may be useful in reducing symptoms such as pain, nausea and anxiety.
• Every individual is unique and no single set of recommendations can be made for everyone. Keeping this in mind, several supportive therapies are generally worth investigating. These include:
  • Diet changes and sensible nutritional supplementation
  • Mind-body therapies including psychotherapy, meditation, yoga and imagery work
  • Selected herbal and homeopathic medicines
  • Massage Therapy
  • Acupuncture
• Nourishing the spirit is extremely important. Meditative practice, prayer, artistic activities and community service are just a few of the paths to experiencing a greater sense of connection.
• Each patient should take full advantage of ongoing, strong relationships with their oncologist, cancer surgeon and primary care physician.

Physicians at the Center of Integrative Medicine have expertise in the application of a range of supportive, complementary therapies to benefit patients who have cancer. They will work closely with your cancer doctors to find a program that is beneficial for you. Center physicians and therapists provide: nutritional counseling, herbal medicine, acupuncture, massage therapy, mindfulness meditation, yoga, movement therapy and psychotherapy. We would be glad to discuss these with you.